Since furnaces aren’t something that you have to buy every year, some people live in their homes for years before buying a new heating system. A furnace upgrade should last you for the next decade—or longer—so make sure to consider the following five factors before committing to a new system.
1. Efficiency
It’s likely that any new furnace you buy will be more efficient than what you currently have, but you’ll still have to make a decision on what Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating is best for your home. AFUE rating measures how efficiently a furnace uses fuel; a higher AFUE, the more efficient the system.
Before committing to a new furnace, understand the different efficiency options and how a higher AFUE could help reduce monthly energy bills.
2. Output Capacity
The amount of heat a furnace produces is expressed in British Thermal Units (BTU). It’s important when buying a new heating system that BTU requirements match your home’s needs. A furnace that outputs too much heat for the home size will not operate efficiently. A furnace that is too small for the home will struggle to keep the whole space warm and comfortable.
Make sure that the system you’re considering purchasing is properly sized for your home.
3. Installation Quality
An improperly installed furnace could break-down more frequently, not last as long as intended or not even heat the house effectively. Before signing on with a company to upgrade your heating system, research the installation company to ensure that they’re an established business with a reliable reputation.
When considering companies, ask about their technician certifications and installation guarantees.
4. Rebates
At any given time there could be a utility rebate, government incentive or a manufacturer offer that could provide significant savings. During a free, in-home furnace quote, ask your heating specialists what promotions you qualify for.
Some incentives are instant savings while others are rebates. Make sure you completely understand the promotion and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
5. Additional Accessories
Buying a new heating system is the perfect time to consider adding home comfort accessories. Depending on your needs, an air cleaner, humidifier or HRV could significantly improve comfort and could be more cost-effective to install in conjunction with a new furnace.
If you’re interested in any other home comfort systems, ask your heating specialist at the time of the home visit.
Schedule your free, no-obligation furnace quote with Delta Air Systems.
Delta Air Systems professionals are trained and fully qualified to provide all of your furnace repair, maintenance and installation needs. We’ve been providing quality service and to the Kitchener-Waterloo, Guelph and Cambridge regions for over 50 years.
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